24 Hour Lockdown

by Virginia Henderson

  24 Hour Lockdown

  Virginia Henderson

  Happy Reading!

  Dedicated to:

  The reader. No matter what, you’re loved and you matter.

  The events, locations, characters and situations are fictional and are meant for entertainment purposes only.

  The thoughts, views, and opinions expressed by the characters do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the author.

  Printed 2018

  Cast of Main Characters:

  Susan- A sweet, cautious, and protective stay at home mom. She often gives into her five-year old daughter’s every whim.

  George- A gruff factory worker whose dream is to become a famous playwright and see his plays preformed on Broadway.

  Marc- This successful business man has almost everything going for him. Except humility.

  Joseph- This man carries around a heavy burden and wants nothing more than to avenge a loved one.

  Melody- Often mistaken for a hippie, she is a kind, and loving young woman with a tender heart.

  Prologue

  The phone on the desk rang. Gwen, an unhappy telephone operator sighed as she picked up the phone and asked with her nasally voice, “How may I transfer your call?”

  She glanced at her watch and rolled her eyes. It was close to the end of her shift and she just wanted to go home, soak in the tub and order Chinese takeout. Yet she was stuck at the desk.

  On the other end of the line, she could hear ragged breathing. Then a man spoke with desperation in his voice, “Please, I need to speak to the police! You have to stop him! Please help!”

  Gwen examined her nails. The red paint on her thumb nail was chipping. I’ll have to schedule an appointment with my manicurist, she thought.

  “One moment, please,” she said as she placed him on hold and transferred the call.

  It took only seconds for Gwen to connect the lines. An operator at the police station answered quickly.

  A red-haired woman named Samantha grabbed the phone. She was enthusiastic and good at thinking on her feet in times of crisis. “Police station. What’s your emergency?”

  The man let out a breath. “You have to stop him! He’s armed! Please help!”

  “Slow down, sir. Tell me your name and your location.” Samantha was already jotting down information.

  “My name’s Nicolas Carter. I’m at my apartment on Rutherford Road, locked in a closet. He’s headed to Redbet. I tried to stop him but...”

  Suddenly, the line went dead.

  Not wasting a second, Samantha hung up and quickly relayed the message. A police squad was dispatched.

  Introductions

  The local library of Redbet is a two-story building with glass windows. On the first floor, half of it is dedicated solely for the children’s section. The other half of the first floor contains thirteen computers, shelves of magazines, CD’S and movies. Several tables and chairs are scattered about.

  The remainder of the books are kept on the second floor. From fiction, to biographies, from manga, to reference. This library prides itself on the large collection of literature they have acquired.

  The only librarian on staff for the last hour sends out the usual automated announcement to the few remaining patrons:

  “The library will be closing in five minutes. Please bring all items to the checkout desk at this time. Thank you.”

  Most of the library is empty by this final announcement. Except for six strangers. These people come from all walks of life, and opposite ends of the spectrum.

  Yet it is their differences, that will bring them together.

  Susan

  I ignore the announcement over the intercom as I let my five-year-old daughter, Amelia, pull me to the children's movie section of the library. The bulging bag of books on my shoulder is falling down as we walk.

  "Slow down sweetie," I whisper as firmly as I can. I pull on the strap of the bag and shrug it back on my shoulder.

  "Hurry, mommy!" Amelia does not heed the need to speak quietly.

  "Not so loud. This is the library," I reply. We pass a woman and her son as they hurry past us to the check out. The woman looks from Amelia to me and gives a look that says, I’m better than you.

  I am grateful when we come to a stop in a secluded aisle, until another problem arises.

  "I want this!" Amelia exclaims as she holds up a movie. I barely have to glance at the cover to see that it is one that she has watched at least a dozen times.

  I remember the last time my husband came home from a bad day at work and Amelia was watching it. Mitch was so angry with me. No, it’s safer not get the movie again.

  I shake my head. "Not today dearest. Our library cards are full."

  Amelia’s usual sweet demeanor vanishes as her face turns sour. She stomps her foot and screams, "I want it!"

  I know most mothers in my position would have simply spanked her and put an end to her tantrum. I’m not a bad mother. I just don’t believe violence solves anything. It’s too common today.

  George

  "No, mommy! I want it now!"

  I look over in the direction of the disruption and glare in annoyance. For the last few minutes, that kid has been screaming about some book or other.

  Does that kid ever stop? Why doesn’t the parent do something?

  I turn my attention back to my computer and stare at what I have typed:

  "June and July"

  A play by George Sanders

  Ok, so you've got the title and you can spell your name. Congratulations, big shot!

  I begin to randomly type, hoping for some inspiration to come my way:

  This was the summer that changed my life forever. The summer when… I couldn’t type because some bratty kid won’t be QUIET!

  I lean my head back in aggravation. I hate when it I can’t concentrate!

  You would think staying here until closing time, I would have some peace and quiet! It’s not like I get any peace at home with my two big selfish dogs who have to have their nose stuck in everything.

  At this rate I’ll never finish this play and send it to the big shots at Broadway. That’s what I really want to do. Not work for hours on end in that mind-numbing factory. I’m practically a slave there!

  In my frustration, I slam my hand down on the counter, earning an annoyed glance by some dude in a suit.

  Marc

  I look up from my laptop as I hear a loud sound. Across from me at the computer counter, a man with a five o'clock shadow is fuming over something. Typical commoner. I bet he doesn’t even know who I am. I shoot him a hard glare and return to what I was doing.

  To any old average joe, the screen before me is just a mess of numbers, graphs, and pie charts. But to me, it’s my life. My source of happiness. My fountain of youth.

  My eyes scan over the numbers and figures. I smile as I see the profits are up, not that I'm surprised. As the owner and founder of the Hilltop banking and loan company, it's my job to see that we improve each and every day. And thanks to me, we do.

  I lean back in my seat and intertwine my fingers behind my slick black hair. I almost prop my Italian leather dress shoes on the table but catch myself as I remember I am not in my polished and modern office, but at the public library.

  My internet connection at home is on the fritz and my office is being repainted, so I was forced to mingle with the commoners. A mistake I won’t be making again.

  Library environments are supposed to be quiet and restful. This one is anything but. Some child is making a racket. Not to mention that big gorilla huffing and puffing over there.

  I suddenly feel the sensation of being watched. As if eyes are boring down on me from behind. Nonchalantly, I turn around. No one is w
atching me.

  The only person is a small and pathetic figure of a man in a chair reading a magazine. I must be paranoid. I’ve heard that a lot of important people suffer from that. I straighten my crisp black suit jacket and return to my beloved numbers.

  Joseph

  I look back up from the magazine as soon as moneybags goes back to his precious laptop. His entire attitude makes me sick. I will enjoy carrying out my plans.

  I remind myself, that I need to stay calm. I notice I started to crumple the cover of this magazine. I’ve been tailing him for over a week now. I don’t want to blow it. Not after all the hard work I’ve put into this job.

  I should run through the plan one more time while I can. I’ll follow him as he leaves the library. Once he gets to his car, I’ll pull my pocketknife on him and force him into his car. I’ll knock him senseless, not that it would take much, take his phone and wallet and then dump him off somewhere in the middle of nowhere. Stranded, and helpless.

  I smile, knowing nothing can go wrong. This will work or someone is going to pay. And I mean pay. That monster has ruined my life and I need to do this. For mom if for no one else.

  My thoughts are interrupted as someone close by drops a book. I look over to see a young girl, most likely in her early twenties. She dressed as a hippie in a tie dye tank and shorts. She grins and waves as she notices me watching. I grunt and go back to my magazine.

  I’m sure if she knew what I was planning to do, she wouldn’t be smiling.

  I check my watch. One more minute to go.

  Melody

  I shrug when I see the man I waved to, turn away. I was kind to him and now it's up to him how he responds.

  I bend over to pick up the book I dropped. My long blonde hair tumbles down in my face but I don't mind. My hair is beautiful.

  The cover reads, "The life and legend of John Lennon." I hug it to my chest and beam. This artist is my favorite! I feel like we have a connection somehow. Just holding the book, I’m getting a lot of positive vibes. I can hardly wait to read it!

  As I walk to the checkout desk, I pull out my library card from my denim messenger bag. The librarian offers a fleeting smile as she takes the book and scans it.

  "Hello. How are you?" I ask. I always make a point to be friendly to everyone.

  "Fine. I’ll be even better in a moment when I can finally go home," She answers.

  I nod in understanding and adjust my bag.

  A phone nearby rings and the librarian picks it up. I smile as I consider how amazing technology has become. Although the environment is suffering for it.

  Suddenly I notice the woman is frowning. Concern wells up inside me. No one should ever have to frown. She hangs up, presses a button under the counter, and hurries to the intercom system.

  Before I can begin to wonder what’s going on, her voice is heard throughout the library.

  "Attention all patrons! We have just been informed by the police that this entire neighborhood is under immediate lockdown due to an armed criminal in the area! For everyone's safety, no one is permitted to leave. The doors have been automatically locked. Please remain calm! The police will inform us when it’s safe to leave."

  I gasp! A lockdown? I’ve never been in a lockdown before! I take a breath and remind myself to stay calm and focus on peaceful thoughts.

  The librarian quickly snatches something up from behind the desk, and runs to the back room, and slams the door behind her. I hear the lock click.

  At the same time, some people are coming to the counter. I can't help but observe they are not happy.

  I wish now I had brought my meditation tapes with me. These worried souls could use it.

  Chapter one

  Susan

  I can hardly hear the announcement over Amelia's tantrum. All I caught was something about the neighborhood and our safety. The librarian's tone sounded worried. I should go see what’s going on.

  "Amelia, dear. Put the movie back. The nice librarian has something to tell us."

  The little girl looks up, rubs her puffy red eyes and whines. "But I want it, mommy!”

  "But Amelia…” I let out a tired sigh. I only ever want to see my daughter happy. It breaks my heart when she’s upset.

  Suddenly Amelia throws herself on the floor. Her feet kick against the carpet and her arms are swinging madly. Sadly, this isn’t the first time I’ve seen her do this. I’m just glad Mitch isn’t here to witness it.

  "Stop right now, sweetie!" I raise my voice slightly to show her that I’m serious. My words don’t do any good though. I glance around the children's area. It is completely empty.

  Through the glass window, I can see a few people standing by the information desk. They probably know what’s going on. I look down at Amelia and bit my lip as I come to a decision.

  "Mommy will be right back. Stay here."

  I don't like leaving her alone, but I don't know what else to do. If something is wrong, I need to know what it is so I can protect Amelia.

  George

  I heard the announcement and left my computer. I rushed to the counter before you can say "overture." This is an uncomfortable situation, but… a great plot for a play. It’s not like my other play is getting anywhere. This could be the inspiration I need.

  Oddly, there’s no librarian at the desk. There’s only some kid dressed as a hippie. She’s staring at me, but I try to ignore her.

  I lean over the counter. That librarian has to be around here somewhere.

  “What do you mean we’re in a lockdown?” I say to no one in particular. I need some answers. I wish I had brought my notebook with me, but it’s at home.

  Beside me, the hippie gently touches my arm and smiles. "Hi. I’m Melody. The librarian went to the back room and I think she locked the door."

  I frown and shake her hand off me. I don't have time for politeness and frankly, this girl gives me the creeps. "What happened?"

  Carefully she explains what she witnessed. I soak in the details trying to get a feel for the plot. Normally, I’d be angry at these turn of events, but maybe this could be just the thing I need; extra time at the library. I’ll have to remember to give the armed fugitive in my play a dramatic hero’s death.

  A voice interrupts my thoughts. "Excuse me, but just what is going on here?"

  I turn to see that it’s that same guy in the suit. And some other guy is following right behind him. I can’t help but notice the look on the second guys’ face. Concern? Aggravation? Doubt? I can’t quite place it.

  Marc

  I frown once I see that big ape is still here. From what I’ve seen, he has a temper and I’m in no mood for him or anyone else. Thanks to some low-down criminal, I’m trapped here. The very idea sickens me and I don’t have to put up with an inconvenience like this.

  "Where is the employee who made the announcement?" I intend to get down to the bottom of this.

  A young lady who looks as if she’s stuck in the sixties speaks up, going on about the woman being in the back room.

  I make my way behind the counter and knock on the door. Once I explain who I am, I’m positive she will allow me to leave. There’s no answer, but one of my many qualities is persistence.

  "I don’t think you can go back there," the girl tells me.

  I turn and give her my infamous cold stare that I use in the board room. "I am the owner of a very wealthy banking and loan company. I can do whatever I please."

  I knock harder on the door. My patience is running thin.

  I’m taken aback when I hear a muffled reply call out, "Go away!"

  Go away? How dare she tell me to go away! I raise my fist to bang on the door but stop when a smug voice speaks up.

  "Well, moneybags. Looks like not everyone bows down to you."

  Joseph

  All eyes are on me as I spit out the words. I normally don’t like attention on me, but I don't care right now. It’s good to see that monster not get his way for once. Too many saps allow him to walk all ove
r them and then they thank him.

  I'm frustrated that things aren’t going as planned. I mean what are the odds of this happening? My hand automatically goes to my jacket pocket. I can feel my pocketknife through the fabric.

  "And you are?" Moneybags asks with that superior attitude of his.

  "Joseph. And you?” I ask although I already know.

  "Amos. Marc Amos. Thriving self-made millionaire."

  Yeah, self-made with the sweat and blood of his clients. I crack my knuckles. It’s a habit I’ve picked up.

  A blonde to my right sticks out her hand and smiles. "Hi! I'm Melody!”

  I realize it’s the same girl who dropped her book. She’s far too happy for my taste. No one should be that cheerful in this unfair world.

  On the other side of Melody, I see another person who will be in our little side circus. He’s big, burly and has a grumpy expression. He’s definitely not the type you want to mess with.

  I hear someone coming up behind me and turn to see a woman hurrying over. She’s lugging a heavy bag with her and she seems frantic.

  Melody

  I smile as I see another woman coming up to join our little group. It will be nice to have some more girl power around here. I just hope she is friendly. So far, these guys aren’t exactly pleasant to be around. Their auras are very depressing.

  "Hello!" I wave to her. As she gets closer, I introduce myself. “I’m Melody! What’s your name?”

  She seems uncertain of everything going on. Gently, I explain what happened and answer her questions. Her amber eyes dart from the empty desk to each of us. She keeps turning back to look at the children’s section.